Memorial Gathering in Honor of Hassan Abdul Karim Chougule: A Tribute to a Visionary Leader

English , Qatar - قطر , Snippets , / Friday, January 31st, 2025

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(Doha, January 30, 2025)
A formal and respectful memorial gathering took place to commemorate the enduring legacy of Hassan Abdul Karim Chougule, who was a notable advocate for the Urdu language and literature, a dedicated social leader, and an innovator in educational and welfare initiatives within Qatar. The event, collaboratively orchestrated by Bazm-e-Urdu Qatar, Anjuman Muhibban-e-Urdu Hind Qatar, and Karwan-e-Urdu Qatar, was held at Lusail Nazarat, Al Muntazah, commencing at 5:30 PM. This gathering attracted a significant assembly of distinguished literary, academic, social, and business figures, all convening to honour his enduring contributions throughout his lifetime.

The assembly began with the recitation of the Holy Quran, which was subsequently accompanied by communal prayers dedicated to the memory of the deceased. Distinguished representatives from a range of organisations deliberated on Chougule Sahib’s exceptional contributions to the advancement of the Urdu language, educational initiatives, and humanitarian endeavours.

Hassan Chougule exemplified the duality of a prosperous entrepreneur and an individual profoundly committed to the principles of public service. His dedication to the Urdu language, social welfare, and education has created a lasting impact on the community, functioning as a source of inspiration for future generations.
Mr. Nadeem Mahir, (Anjuman Muhibban-e-Urdu Hind Qatar), while moderating the event, emphasized Chougule Sahib’s humility and lifelong devotion to service, stating:
“Despite his numerous commitments as an entrepreneur, his passion for the Urdu language remained steadfast and unyielding. He frequently identified himself as ‘Mareez-e-Urdu,’ signifying his deep commitment and service to the Urdu language. Indeed, he emerged as a prominent and influential figure within the literary and social spheres of Doha. The absence resulting from his passing has engendered a profound void, the effects of which we are likely to experience deeply for many years ahead.”
Recalling a long-standing association with Chougule Sahib, Mr. Shahid Khan, (Karwan-e-Urdu Qatar), expressed his grief:
“His passion for Urdu remained unwavering despite his busy work schedule as a highly esteemed businessman. He frequently identified himself as ‘Mareez-e-Urdu,’ signifying his deep commitment to the Urdu language. Indeed, he represented a significant presence within the literary and social spheres of Doha. The absence resulting from his passing has engendered an irreplaceable void, the effects of which we are likely to experience profoundly for many years ahead.”
Mr. Ijaz Haider, (Bazm-e-Urdu Qatar), expressing deep sorrow over his passing, remarked:
“Despite my physical absence from Doha, the news of Hassan Bhai’s demise profoundly affected me, evoking a deep sense of sorrow. He was an individual of considerable knowledge and accomplishment, endowed with profound wisdom and foresight. His commitment to social service and the promotion of the Urdu language was remarkable. The absence of this individual represents an irreparable loss, particularly for the Urdu literary community situated in Doha. Notwithstanding his demanding schedule, he consistently allocated time for these gatherings. I recall observing him with a notebook, meticulously recording essential insights—this serves as a testament to his enduring commitment to the pursuit of knowledge.”
Mr. Osama Shamsi, (Bazm-e-Alig Qatar), fondly remembered Chougule Sahib’s warmth and generosity:
“He maintained a profound closeness to us, consistently demonstrating affection and providing unwavering support. Recently, my friends and I convened in a location that held significance for our gatherings with him, and his absence was acutely palpable. He transcended the role of a mere mentor, embodying the essence of a genuine well-wisher for the community.”
Highlighting Chougule Sahib’s remarkable time management and dedication to social causes, Mr. Moin, (Alumni Association of Jamia Millia Islamia Qatar), stated:
“He frequently articulated the notion that an individual who is genuinely occupied can nonetheless allocate time for the consideration of others. He adhered to this principle, participating in literary and social events with notable responsibility and dedication.”
Mr. Muzaffar Nayab, (Halqa Qatar), shared his personal experience:
“My initial encounter with him occurred during a book launch ceremony, an event characterised by his remarkable humility, which made a profound and enduring impression on me. As time progressed, he established himself as a recognisable figure at each Halqa event. He exhibited a sincere curiosity in establishing personal connections with individuals. Despite being in his 70s, he exhibited a remarkable level of energy, characterised by his brisk walking and active participation in intellectual discussions until the very end of his life.”
In his concluding remarks, renowned poet and General Secretary of Bazm-e-Urdu Qatar, Ashfaque Ahmed, expressed gratitude to all attendees:
“The demise of Hassan Chougule Sahib represents a significant loss not only for the Urdu literary community but also for the broader Indian diaspora residing in Qatar. He was an individual who existed with a clear sense of purpose and bequeathed a legacy characterised by compassion and dedicated service to others. The considerable assembly of individuals present here, despite the limited time for preparation, serves as a profound indication of the affection and esteem he inspired among those who knew him.”
Following this, Mr. Nadeem Mahir led a heartfelt prayer for the departed soul, asking Allah to grant him a place in Jannat-ul-Firdous and elevate his ranks in the Hereafter. As the event concluded, Bazm-e-Urdu Qatar, Anjuman Muhibban-e-Urdu Hind Qatar, and Karwan-e-Urdu Qatar reaffirmed their commitment to continuing Hassan Chougule’s mission of promoting the Urdu language and fostering educational and social initiatives.
This memorial gathering was not merely an event—it was a reminder of the profound impact of his selfless service. Individuals like Hassan Chougule do not simply pass away; they continue to live on in the hearts and minds of those they inspire. His legacy will remain etched in the history of Qatar’s Urdu literary and social landscape for generations .
The event saw the presence of numerous distinguished personalities from Qatar’s literary, academic, social, and business communities, all of whom gathered to pay tribute to Hassan Chougule’s remarkable contributions. Representatives from various Urdu literary and cultural organizations expressed their deep sorrow over his passing and reaffirmed their commitment to continuing his mission.
Among the notable attendees were: Jami Sahib, Sajid Qayoom, Syed Wasif Iqbal Gilani, Raqim Azmi, Athar Azmi, Hamza Azmi, Ali Imran, Ehtesham Iqbal, Ashraf-ul-Islam, Rashid Alam Rashid, Nishat Siddiqui, Adil Mufti, and others. Their participation reflected the widespread respect and admiration Chougule Sahab commanded across different spheres of society.

Syed Wasif Iqbal Gilani
Media Secretary
Bazm e Urdu, Qatar